Airbnb Host Services: Hilton Head, SC

Hosting an Airbnb in Hilton Head, SC: what to know

Hilton Head Island is a family beach and golf destination with gated communities, villa complexes and single-family homes. The Town reworked its short-term rental program in 2026, so understanding the new rules is the first step before hiring a cleaner or co-host.

Short-term rental rules and taxes

As of 2026, every short-term rental on the island needs a Town short-term rental permit and a Town business license. Permits must be issued to a person, not a company, and the permit number must appear on every advertisement. The Town requires a site plan showing trash storage and parking, with no more than six vehicles in the driveway. HOA properties need a letter showing rentals are allowed. Safety rules include fire extinguishers, smoke and CO detectors, a shutoff valve on outdoor propane grills and extra fire safety systems for homes of 3,600 square feet or more. The owner or agent must respond to a complaint within one hour.

In 2026 the Town moved to a per-bedroom fee of $150 per bedroom per year, replacing a flat fee, with a late fee for renewals after the deadline. Fines escalate from $250 to $500 to $1,000, and repeat citations within 12 months can lead to revocation.

Taxes include South Carolina state sales and accommodations taxes plus the Town's 3% local tax, made up of a 1% accommodations tax and a 2% beach preservation fee, filed quarterly. Confirm with the Town's Revenue Services whether your platform remits the local 3% for you.

What turnover cleaning costs in Hilton Head

We did not find a published local price survey. Quotes depend on size, sand, bikes and beach gear, golf cart and pool areas, and gate access in communities like Sea Pines. Many homes use offsite linen service, which may be billed separately.

When to book help

Summer is peak, with spring break and the RBC Heritage golf tournament in April also busy. Saturday changeovers are traditional on the island, creating heavy same-day pressure. Winter is slower. Book cleaners and backups early.

How to choose a cleaner or co-host here

• Confirm they can get gate passes for your community.
• Ask how they handle trash rules, since the Town requires guest trash instructions.
• Pick a co-host who can meet the one-hour response rule.
• Ask about hurricane prep and post-storm checks.

Hilton Head Airbnb host FAQ

Q: How much is the Hilton Head short-term rental permit?

Under the 2026 fee model, $150 per bedroom per year. Verify with the Town.

Q: Can my LLC hold the permit?

No. The Town requires the permit to be in a person's name.

Q: What local taxes do I collect?

The Town's 1% accommodations tax and 2% beach preservation fee, filed quarterly, plus state taxes.

Sources:

• Town of Hilton Head Island: STR Permit Requirements
• Town of Hilton Head Island: Next Phase of STR Program
• Town of Hilton Head Island: Accommodations Tax and Beach Preservation Fees